Jones County JC: Powell played two seasons at Jones County Junior College at the running back position. In 2011, Powell rushed for 897 yards on 182 carries, averaging 99.7 yards a game, while scoring 13 touchdowns. He also caught 29 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns. Powell garnered MACJC All-State South honors. In 2010, Powell played in nine games, rushing for 197 yards on 51 attempts and a touchdown, while catching nine balls for 44 yards.

High School: Powel was labeled a three-star recruit by Rivals.com and the No. 78 running back in the nation coming out of Columbia High School. He had 963 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground as a junior in a spread offense at Columbia High School North, while rushing for 1,280 yards and 18 touchdowns as a sophomore.